Used Wedding Rings
Many brides and grooms opt for used wedding rings rather than purchasing a brand new set. The reasons for this choice vary, but many couples find it to be right for them. Here are just some of the reasons for choosing used wedding rings.
Vintage
Many couples really like vintage or antique rings better than those that are new. Some of the styles are very unique and are unlike what can be found by visiting a jewelry store.
Another reason some couples are drawn to vintage rings is that, in addition to being beautiful, they also have a history. Even if that history is not known, some couples like the idea that someone was wearing their wedding ring 100 or more years ago.
Cost
For many couples, the reason they choose used wedding rings is because it is a way to save money. It is possible to get the same size stone for far less money when buying used instead of new.
By removing the retail markup, huge savings are possible. Since there is less risk when buying a used ring than buying something with mechanical or moving parts, many couples feel confident that buying used for this reason is a smart choice.
Environmental Concerns
To some couples, doing their part to protect the environment is of the utmost importance. Buying used whenever possible is part of that commitment. For these couples, another option to buying used wedding rings is to find a jeweler that uses only reclaimed materials.
There are several options when it comes to where to find your used wedding rings.
Pawn Shops
Pawn shops usually have a large number of used wedding rings for sale. In fact, jewelry is the item that most of these stores have in the greatest abundance. The prices are almost always negotiable and are a fraction of what you’d pay at a retail store.
Antique Stores
Some couples, particularly those want rings that are 100 or more years old, would have better luck finding what they want at an antique store. While the prices are likely to be higher than in a pawn shop, the selection is likely to include finer examples.
Classified Ads
The local newspaper or sites such as Craig’s List are another good place to find used wedding rings. It is often possible to realize the greatest savings when buying directly from the owner of the ring.
Of course, the downside to shopping for a ring in the above ways is that if you find something you like, you have to act instantly or the rings you like could be gone.
When you shop at a retail store, you have the luxury of thinking about the ring before making a decision. Because most used wedding rings are going to be one of a kind, when you find what you like you will need to buy it right away or risk it being sold to someone else.
Whatever your reason for buying used instead of new, you have several options of places to look and your rings are sure to be very unique and special.